Firefighters in West Sussex are urging chip lovers to be extra vigilant when they indulge in one of the nation’s favourite foods this National Chip Week (20-26 February).
Almost 60% of all accidental house fires in West Sussex are started in the kitchen with the majority caused by unattended or careless cooking. Leaving a chip pan unattended for even a short time can have disastrous results as the oil can easily overheat and ignite. A simple switch from the pan to the oven or a temperature controlled deep-fat fryer can help prevent the worst.
Community Risk Reduction Officer for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, Jackie Boyle, said:
“I’m sure chips will be on many people’s menus during National Chip Week. People assume that cooking chips in a pan of hot oil is a thing of the past, but we know from the incidents our crews attend that it’s still popular. Last month a lady in Crawley sustained serious burns attempting to tackle a chip pan fire which shows just how dangerous it can be.
“We’d recommend oven chips as a safer and healthier option, but if people do choose to fry then please ensure you stand by your pan – don’t be tempted to leave it unattended. If you are unlucky enough to have a chip pan fire, please don’t try and tackle it yourself, especially not with water, it could put your life in serious danger.”
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’ tips on frying safely:
. Most kitchen fires occur when people leave things unattended. Don’t let yourself be distracted while cooking, if you are called away from the cooker take pans off the heat
. Never fill a chip pan (or other deep-fat fryer) more than one-third full of oil
. Consider using a thermostatically controlled deep-fat fryer – this will ensure that the fat does not get too hot
. Test it Tuesday – fit a smoke alarm on each level of your home and don’t forget that weekly test!
If a pan catches fire:
. Don’t move it – it is likely to be extremely hot
. Turn off the heat if it’s safe to do so – but never lean over a pan to reach the controls
. Don’t use water on a chip pan fire – the water reacts with the oil creating a potentially lethal fireball
. Don’t use a fire extinguisher on a pan of oil – the force of the extinguisher can spread the fire
. If you have put the fire out, leave the pan to cool completely.
Would you or someone you know benefit from a FREE Home Fire Safety Check? Call 0800 3286487 or log onto www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire to find out if you are eligible.
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